Scleroderma Gastrointestinal Complications and Treatments

Most people living with scleroderma have mild to severe gastrointestinal problems. Gastrointestinal symptoms in scleroderma can appear in many forms and involve different levels of risk, from simple indigestion to esophageal blockage.

The Digestive System and Scleroderma

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract in our body is involved in consuming and processing the food we eat and eliminating waste.

More than 90% of those living with scleroderma experience some form of GI issues. Severe gastrointestinal scleroderma complications are serious and affect only about 10% of people with scleroderma.

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Manifestations of GI Complications

Esophageal Disease

In the upper section of the GI tract, people with scleroderma may experience gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal dysmotility, and/or lower esophageal sphincter (LES) dysfunction.

Gastric Disease

In the middle section of the GI tract, people with scleroderma may experience gastroparesis and/or gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE).

Lower GI Disease

In the lower section of the GI tract, people with scleroderma may experience diarrhea, constipation, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and/or incontinence.

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Resources for Newly Diagnosed

There is a lot to understand about scleroderma. Here are some tools to help you as you begin managing this complicated disease.

Treatment Centers

Looking for treatment options near you? Check out our directory of U.S. treatment centers that are prepared to handle your needs while living with scleroderma.

Webinar Series

The Scleroderma Research Foundation hosts free online webinars providing information about scleroderma, disease management, and latest research advances.